The recent news of a family of six found dead in a submerged car in Jitra, Kedah, has deeply saddened the nation.
As we collectively mourn this heartbreaking incident, it also prompts a serious reflection on our preparedness in life-threatening situations.
While nothing can ease the pain of such a loss, raising awareness and sharing potentially life-saving knowledge may help prevent future tragedies.
Vehicle submersion accidents, though relatively uncommon, can quickly turn fatal.
Experts warn that once a car hits water, time is critical, you may have less than a minute to act.
This article aims to guide readers through the essential steps to escape a sinking car, with advice grounded in emergency response best practices.
Step-by-Step Guide to Escaping a Sinking Car
1. Stay Calm and Act Quickly
While panic is a natural reaction, staying calm helps you think clearly.
Deep breaths and focused actions will help conserve energy.
2. Unbuckle Your Seatbelt First
Immediately remove your seatbelt.
Then assist others in the vehicle, especially young children.
If you have babies or toddlers in car seats, release them as quickly as possible.
3. Open or Break a Window
Your best chance of escape is through a window.
Try to open the side window before water pressure builds up.
If the window doesn’t open, break it using a specialised window-breaking tool like a rescue hammer, preferably spring loaded.
Always aim for the corner of the window rather than the centre.
Important: Do not try to open the car doors. Water pressure outside the vehicle will likely prevent this and may cause the car to fill more quickly if successful.
4. Get Children Out First
Guide children out of the window in order of oldest to youngest. This ensures older children can help themselves while you assist the younger ones.
5. Swim to the Surface
Once everyone is out, swim in the direction of the bubbles or towards the light.
Push away from the vehicle to avoid being pulled down with it if it sinks.
Once you reach the surface, get to land or call for emergency assistance if you’re able.
Prepare Ahead: What You Can Do Now
- Keep a rescue tool in the car: Ensure it’s within easy reach of the driver’s seat, ideally attached to your keychain or placed in the console.
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Know your car windows: Some modern vehicles have laminated windows that are harder to break. Familiarise yourself with your car’s specifications and consider getting a tool that can cut through laminated glass.
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Educate the family: Teach older children the escape steps. A simple acronym like SWOC can help:
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Seatbelts off
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Window open or broken
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Out immediately
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Children first
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Turning Grief Into Awareness
It is difficult to discuss such painful events, especially when children are involved.
But it is in honour of those lost that we share knowledge which could make a difference for someone else.
Escaping a sinking car is not a topic many think about, until it’s too late.
Let us carry forward this conversation not out of fear, but out of a commitment to be better prepared.
In times of crisis, knowing what to do can mean everything.
Please share this information with your friends and family.
Awareness saves lives and one small act, like sending this article to someone you care about, could one day make all the difference.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.
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